Tuesday, June 3, 2008

#30

I've been turning down the volume lately. And not just on the radio. I've been making quilts and pillow covers in a much more muted palette. It all started with this quilt . I made it with this question in mind," What happens to pattern when the values of the fabrics are really close together?" It seemed that answering that question was easier to do if the fabrics were white or primarily white, simple and graphic. Since then I've used this idea of obscuring pattern by severely limiting the palette to create these pillow covers and coasters .I took this idea one step further recently by drafting a slightly more complicated pattern and applying the same palette.

Actually just the fact that I drew out my idea and then created templates for that pattern is amazing. I don't think I've ever done that before. I'm used to just piecing stuff together without a whole lot of thought as to whether pieces fit together. But I felt like working so"quietly" required precision.

One of the cool things about creating these template pieces is that I can enlarge them as much as I like. In this version the individual blocks measured about 9x9", but if I doubled the size of the template pieces then they'd be 18x18" which I think would have a different kind of impact. Maybe at that size or larger the scale of the prints used would have to change? Maybe it would be easier or harder to disguise the pattern? Maybe the overall energy of the pattern would decrease? Increase? The possibilities are so much fun to think about...and try.

This is what I love about quilting -- there are soooooooo many possibilities: simple, complex, large, small, beginner, advanced, more piecing, more quilting, loud, quiet, crass, delicate, well you get the picture!! I'm liking your graphic white palette.

FYI, they make templates! LOL. But I'm sure you like the creative process. I just bought a windmill template and some fat quarters for a new quilt. I, myself, can't do the math effectively so I have to cheat. But I think it's really awesome that you are doing the entire process from start to finish like that.

nice...i work with very bright colors and find it relaxing to use the softer muted tones...but mostly work in the bright. actually did a little bit of dyeing, am happy with some of it, really love one piece and well...i can always overdye :-)

I usually work with bright colours, but find myself drawn to more muted ones lately too. The combination of fabrics in this quilt of yours are really lovely and calm, but the pattern in some of the fabrics add visual interest and makes you want to take a closer look. I have given you an award:http://craftymathea.blogspot.com/2008/06/i-have-received-award.html

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About Me

Hi and welcome!
I'm an artist living in the best city in Texas. I love all things fiber and taking pictures of those things and maybe a few more.
I get a huge kick out of your comments, so keep them coming. If you have a question, please leave it in the comments section and I'll reply there as well. If you'd like to email me, my address is malka@stitchindye.com.